I had no idea that the movie was based on a true account. How this book has been overlooked in favor of fictional accounts of slave life is beyond me. Northup’s writing doesn’t “sparkle” with vivid imagery or poetic dialogue. It is real, honest, and an eye-opener.
Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a straightforward, blunt narrative, and well worth reading. It is honest and moving, and obviously not written by a professional author. It is a man speaking from his heart, in the most practical, clear, and genuine language he could.
There is really not much to say about it, except that I am glad I read it.
The Faery Inn 